Health
Glaucoma, a condition that causes damage to the optic nerve is associated with increased pressure inside the eye. Without treatment glaucoma can cause blindness. “The most common treatment for glaucoma is with drops and extensive surgery,” says Ophthalmologist Dr. Sagun J. Pendse, M.D. “The drops have side effects and very costly.” Now a procedure called selective laser trabeculoplasy can be used to lower eye pressure and eliminate or reduce the need for drops. Dr. Pendse explains, “This is a gentle lazer which is focused on the part of the eye where fluid gets drained.” The laser has minimal heat absorption because it pinpoints selected pigmented tissue in the eye. It has been called “cold laser,” and produces much less scar tissue and pain than other laser procedures. Some patients who have cataracts with glaucoma will have eye stents placed in the eyes to increase drainage while being operated undergoing cataract surgery. Eyes stents, like selective laser trabeculoplasty can reduce or eliminate the need for prescription drops. Dr. Sagun J. Pendse is a physician associated with Eye Associates of Bucks County, 360 Middletown Blvd., Suite 402, Langhorne, PA; 215-757-6200; www.eabceyes.com.